Warnings
This drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. Also, related drugs rarely have caused blood clots to form, resulting in heart attacks and strokes. This medication might also rarely cause similar problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of treatment, as well as other possible medication choices.
If you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects, stop taking ibuprofen and seek immediate medical attention: black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest pain, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, slurred speech.
Uses
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which relieves pain and swelling (inflammation). This medication is used to reduce a fever and relieve minor aches and pain in children.
This drug works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain, swelling, and fever.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 months of age unless directed by the doctor.
How to use Motrin Oral
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using ibuprofen and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Shake the bottle well before each dose. Measure out each dose carefully with the provided dropper. Give this medication by mouth with food or immediately after a meal as directed. Follow each dose with milk, juice, or formula. Keep the child from lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug.
The dosage is based on your child's weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. Read the product instructions to find the appropriate dose for your child's weight, or consult the pharmacist or doctor if you have questions. If repeat doses are needed, they are usually given 6 or 8 hours apart; or as directed by the doctor.
To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. Do not take the over-the-counter product for more than 10 days unless otherwise directed.
In certain conditions (e.g., arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks, taken regularly, before the full benefits of this drug take effect.
If you are giving this medication to a child for undiagnosed fever or pain, consult the doctor immediately if symptoms do not improve within 24 hours, worsen or last for more than 3 days, or if new symptoms appear.